Résumé
Improving the commercial quality of new hybrids of banana is a challenge involving the increase in knowledge in physiological injury like fruit drop to optimize postharvest conditions until the market. To meet the challenge of developing agroecological production systems based on banana, the integration of cultivars that are naturally resistant to pathogens and pests is being considered. However, one of the obstacles to the commercial development of new banana cultivars is the lack of knowledge on the determinants of commercial quality criteria, in particular certain physiological alterations characterized for example by fruit drop. Metabolic markers related to oxidative stress and structural characteristics influencing these alterations were identified by studying a susceptible cultivar, 938, and a tolerant cultivar, Cavendish. In order to improve the commercial quality of this hybrid 938, a new postharvest itinerary was designed and tested. It allows to delay and limit the level of intensity of this physiological alteration and to answer the constraints of a marketing of this hybrid on the local market. In parallel, the sensory quality was evaluated under these new conditions to identify a new optimum of consumption and to support this marketing. This study provides elements to feed crossbreeding and selection strategies in the Cirad Banana Variety Improvement Platform and for the design of robust postharvest technical solutions adapted to the markets.